mathowie

Windows only: Anyone that's ever run a bunch of wireless devices in a home has probably noticed interference is commonplace. While wifi access points let you pick from one of 12 channels, it's often hard to tell where you will get the best performance aside from simple trial and error. Enter Wi-Spy ($99). This nifty app will analyze the entire 2.4 Ghz spectrum and let you know what sections your phone, microwave, and/or baby monitors are occupying, letting you optimize your wifi on the unused channels.

Personally, I have a crowded house when it comes to wireless. I have two wifi points, a baby monitor, microwave, wireless xbox controllers, and two cordless phones. In my last house, the cordless phone would kill the wifi and knock all my computers offline when someone called. These days, my biggest problem is getting occasional feedback on the baby monitor, for no known reason (sometimes at 3 AM, the monitor will freak out with loud feedback). I think I'm going to pick up Wi-Spy and give it a try. — Matt Haughey